Solar farms ‘boost biodiversity’

That’s according to a new report, which looked into the effects of 11 solar arrays on local biodiversity.

Researchers at Clarkson & Woods and Wychwood Biodiversity compared wildlife in the solar farm and at a “control” plot nearby to assess any changes.

They found solar farms with the “right management” had greater botanical diversity compared to control plots of agricultural land.

Invertebrate species, butterflies and bumblebees were in greater abundance and a greater diversity of birds was found on solar farms than in control plots.

For overall biodiversity value, three sites with the greatest management focus towards wildlife were ranked the highest.

Leonie Greene, Head of External Affairs at the Solar Trade Association said: “We’re delighted with the findings of this survey. It confirms that solar farms, when done properly, are an asset to our countryside and our natural environment.”